adminGlamorous Hollywood, dramatic heights at Gran Canyon and sparkling lights in the Nevada desert. The west coast of the United States offers an inferno of experiences, and we recommend 10 top attractions. Welcome to the west coast.
Los Angeles, California
The City of Angels is a must see and can be combined with both star dust and beaches. Shopping on Rodeo Drive, guided tour through Beverly Hills with a look at the stars’ houses and movie scenes at Universal Studios are some of the classics. But also roller coaster rides at Disneyland, bathing life in the coastal towns of Santa Monica and Santa Barbara and the Danish colony Solvang are worth a visit.
Las Vegas, Nevada
Sparkling lights, noisy slot machines and huge hotels. And then in the middle of the desert. Las Vegas must be experienced – whether you come to play at the 24-hour casinos or just to sniff the atmosphere. The Strip with upscale restaurants and a sea of shopping opportunities is also a must go. Maybe the desert city can even tempt you with a Drive-in wedding, where you do not have to get out of the car.
Death Valley, California
Fascinating scenery, distinctive cacti and extreme heat. In summer, temperatures sneak up to an average of 47 degrees in Death Valley National Park. So stay in the shade during the hot summer months or visit Death Valley in the spring, when the park’s many desert plants bloom. And remember a visit to Scotty’s Castle in the northern part of the park, which was built by a rich man in the 1920s.
Grand Canyon, Arizona
Steep slopes and stunning panoramas. The Grand Canyon is one of the largest attractions in the United States with over 5 million visitors a year. And there is a reason for that. The overwhelming gorge is 30 kilometers wide, 446 kilometers long and over one and a half kilometers deep, and you can easily spend several days exploring the area. Especially if you want to climb down into the gorge itself and get the experience from the depths.
Yosemite, California
Lush nature, beautiful waterfalls and amazing rock formations. Yosemite National Park spreads over a gigantic area, and the Yosemite Valley is the main attraction in Yosemite. The famous waterfalls splash down the valley as the meltwater from the Sierra Nevada mountains sends tons of water down into the Yosemite Valley. And then the high El Capitan cliff in the park is popular for mountaineering.
Bryce Canyon, Utah
Pointed cliffs and unique sunrises. Bryce Canyon should be on the must-see list of national parks on the west coast. The road through the park is 30 kilometers long, and you decide whether you want to drive and get deeper into the park, or whether you want to board the buses that carry tourists around to the most spectacular viewpoints. At each vantage point, steep nature trails lead down into the valley itself.
Palm Springs, California
Mountains, gorges and forest areas. Palms Springs is known as a great vacation spot. In summer, the city offers sun, beach and water, while in winter the city is a playground for many rich and famous people who come to ski. In addition to sun and skiing, the area is also known for a large selection of golf courses and fitness centers.
Zion National Park, Utah
Zion National Park offers a wealth of deep gorges, overwhelming rock formations and labyrinths of narrow passages. You can not drive yourself, but are transported around in buses between the various sights. From here you can hike, kayak, bike or ride. During the day you can spot snakes, turtles and deer, and at night the cougars come out and hunt.
San Francisco, California
Pulse, culture and coolness. The city with the steep streets by the Pacific Ocean is the most liberal metropolis in the United States and definitely worth a visit. You will experience classics such as the Golden Gate Bridge, the Alcatraz Prison and Chinatown. But also the Walt Disney Family Museum, the gay stronghold of Castro and the Twin Peaks viewpoint overlooking the city are commendable.
Highway 1, California
From San Francisco to Los Angeles on your own. The trip on Highway 1 takes place without exaggeration on one of the world’s most beautiful coastlines, so if you have the time, desire and profit, give yourself that experience. And enjoy the view along the way. That way, you decide for yourself where and when to stop on your west coast adventure.